President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to commission the newly completed Katsina State Agricultural Mechanisation Centre on Friday, 2 May, in a move expected to significantly advance farming and food security in Northern Nigeria.
The centre, located along the Tashar Bala–Kano road, is a key initiative of Governor Dikko Radda’s administration, which has prioritised reforms across agriculture, education, economic development and security in Katsina State. The project is aimed at enhancing mechanised farming and fostering rural productivity across the region.
Built by Woerka Nigeria Co. Ltd., an engineering firm known for supplying heavy-duty equipment for agriculture, mining and road construction, the facility has been completed ahead of schedule. The company says the centre will not only provide advanced farming equipment but also serve as a hub for technology transfer and skills development.
Speaking ahead of the commissioning, Woerka’s CEO, Mr Xu Xianrui, said the project represents more than just infrastructure. “This centre is about empowering communities, building skills, and embedding knowledge in the local economy,” he said. “We’re looking to establish a farming tractor assembly plant in Katsina and provide reliable after-sales support to ensure machines remain operational for years to come.”
Mr Xianrui noted that Governor Radda’s trust in the company played a crucial role in bringing the project to fruition. “We are proud to have delivered this project on time and above expectations. It reflects our shared commitment to innovation and sustainable development.”
The Katsina State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Dr Bala Salisu Zango, also highlighted the strategic value of the centre, describing it as a catalyst for agricultural transformation in the state. “This is not just a facility—it is a long-term investment in food security and economic self-reliance,” he said.
Once operational, the mechanisation centre is expected to play a central role in modernising agricultural practices across Katsina and neighbouring states, contributing to broader efforts to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on food imports and improve rural livelihoods.
